Tips For Flying With a Toddler: Practical Tips From Mom of Two
Are you flying with a toddler for the first time and need some practical tips? Glad you stopped by.
We have traveled to multiple countries with two toddlers and admit that flying with toddlers is no joke. It can be uncomfortable and exhausting. While we still face some challenges, we have made this journey much more comfortable for kids and parents, so I wanted to share our tips with you.
With proper preparation, the right toys, snacks, attitude, and other helpful resources, you will gain more confidence and travel with your little ones more comfortably.
For a complete, step-by-step plan before traveling, check out my Ultimate Guide to Planning a Family Vacation with Kids. It’s designed to make your next trip smooth, fun, and stress-free!
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links, and I will earn a small commission for any sales made through such links – at no extra cost to you.
Flying With a Toddler Tips
1. Choose Morning Flights
Morning flights are my go-to choice when traveling with my toddler, and here’s why. First, mornings tend to be calmer at the airport. Fewer crowds and shorter lines mean less chaos when juggling bags, snacks, and a curious toddler.
Plus, morning flights are usually on time, which saves me the stress of unexpected delays that can quickly turn a trip upside down.
Most importantly, my toddler is typically well-rested and in a better mood after a good night’s sleep, making the journey smoother for both of us.
2. Get a Seat for Longer Flights
When flying with a baby or a toddler under two years old, you can have them sit on your lap without additional (or minor) cost or book an extra seat.
I only recommend an extra seat for flights longer than 4 hours. Buying an additional seat for the child can provide more space and allow the child to use a car seat.
If your flight is very short, I would take advantage of lap seating to save money on a seat.
3. Choose Window Seats (Avoid Aisle)
Window seats are a win when traveling with a toddler! They offer a view, entertainment, and wall space, which can be helpful during toddler naps. You can also use the window to entertain them with spinning suction cups.
The next best seats are the front-row bulkhead seats, which offer extra legroom.
Try to avoid Aisle seats when flying with a toddler. Be aware that aisle seats can pose risks, as service carts may pass by and bump into your child.
4. Talk to Them About a Trip
Preparing toddlers for flying beforehand is a good idea. Familiarizing them with flying and explaining what to expect can help reduce anxiety and make the experience more manageable.
Simple explanations and visual aids can help toddlers understand what will happen during the flight.
I have created an airport coloring book for kids that could be a great resource as they prepare for their Journey.
5. Dress Them in Layers
Layers allow easy and flexible adjustment to varying temperatures. Airports and airplanes can have fluctuating temperatures, so dressing in layers ensures you and your toddler can stay comfortable regardless of the conditions.
If you are traveling with a toddler in a lap, you and he can quickly get sweaty. Removing a layer is much easier than completely changing your kid’s clothes.
6. Access Airport Lounges For Long Layovers
If you are flying with a toddler and have a long layover or wait time, airport lounges can be one of the best ways to regain your sanity. Snacks, refreshments, clean bathrooms, and fast Wi-Fi can benefit everyone in the family.
There are several options for accessing airport lounges with kids.
You can consider purchasing a day pass, obtaining a Priority Pass, or using an airline credit card for lounge access. Some lounges may offer complimentary access for kids under a certain age, so checking the lounge’s specific policy is essential.
While we do not usually go to airport lounges, we took advantage of one once. It was the best two hours of waiting before our flight, away from the crowded, overheated airport.
7. Invest in TSA Precheck
TSA PreCheck is a program that lets you go through airport security faster. You apply online, go through a background check, and pay a fee to get it.
Once approved, you can use special lanes at the airport to go through security faster. I only wish we had done this sooner because it made a big difference when flying with a toddler or a baby.
When traveling with children 12 and under, they can go through TSA PreCheck with their eligible parents or guardians. Kids aged 13-17 need their own TSA PreCheck if they travel without an eligible adult.
Whether it’s worth it depends on how often you travel and how much you value the convenience of faster security screening at the airport
To get TSA PreCheck, you can follow these general steps:
Pre-Enrollment: Start by completing the online application on the TSA website or through an approved enrollment provider.
In-Person Appointment: After completing the online application, you must schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. During this appointment, you will be fingerprinted and provided with the required documentation, such as a valid passport or driver’s license.
Background Check: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will conduct a background check based on the information provided in your application.
Approval and Known Traveler Number (KTN): You will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) via mail or email. This KTN is used when booking flights to access TSA PreCheck lanes.
Fee Payment: A non-refundable application fee ($78 for five years per applicant). Once approved, you must pay this fee before receiving your KTN.
It’s important to note that specific details and requirements may vary, so it’s advisable to refer to the official TSA website for updates or changes.
8. Arrive Early at the Airport
Aim to arrive at the airport well before departure to minimize stress.
The extra time allows for unexpected delays and a more relaxed pace, essential when traveling with little ones.
Use this time to quickly check in and navigate through airport security with your toddler, as these processes can take longer than expected.
9. Let them help you
I’m not sure about your toddlers, but my firstborn would entertain himself by rolling one of the carry-on bags every time we went to the airport. Let them help, even if it takes them time. It’s better than tantrums! This is why getting to the airport early is essential to accommodate little helpers.
10. Bring a Folding Travel Stroller
The stroller is a blessing for getting around the airport faster. Your hands can be free, and you do not need to worry about carrying extra items, such as baby carriers, unless your toddler prefers them.
If you decide to bring a stroller, do not bring your fancy one. There is a high risk that it will be damaged and ruined.
We are guilty of it. Our Stoke Explorer was entirely ruined during our trip to London, and after almost one year on and off with British Airways, we are still trying to resolve it. At this point, I feel like giving up.
If you travel often and want to avoid checking your stroller, I highly recommend investing in a foldable travel stroller. A few fantastic options are Babyzen Yoyo and Cybex Liebelle.
Be ready for security checkpoints. Dress your toddler in shoes and outerwear that are easy to remove. Keep electronics and liquids accessible to expedite the screening process. You may need to fold strollers, so practice doing this beforehand. Remember, staying calm yourself helps your toddler remain calm as well.
11. Change Diapers/Use the Bathroom Before the Flight
I’m unsure about you, but I feel uncomfortable taking my kids to an airplane bathroom. My Baby/toddler got extremely scared when I was changing diapers there. It is a tiny place to appropriately dress and undress a kid, especially an active toddler. So, I do everything possible to minimize my trips there.
I try to change diapers for the last few minutes before we get on the plane and take my older kid to the bathroom. Yes, they will use airplane bathrooms if needed, but at least they will delay it a little.
12. Have a Surprise Toy
In addition to filling their backpacks with their favorite small toys and snacks, get them something as a surprise. These little surprises almost always work wonders at keeping their attention on something new when managing them is tough.
I like to save those until we get on the airplane to win some time while they are busy exploring new toys.
13. Locate Play Areas at the Airport
Most airports have family restrooms and changing facilities. Look for play areas designed for children that provide a safe space for your toddler to play, making waiting time more enjoyable. You can promptly address your child’s needs by identifying these facilities in advance.
14. Organize Carry-on and Diaper Bag with Essentials
Yes, we take both and pack essentials in both bags because we never know. My kids get their clothes dirty multiple times on trips, and we get a fair share of spills and messes, too, so we do not take chances.
Your carry-on should be stocked with items, including everything your child needs.
Similarly, we keep less of everything in a diaper bag for easier access and hope never to need to take down the carry-on from the overhead bin. A well-organized backpack or diaper bag can be such a lifesaver.
A thoughtful packing list can look like this:
- Diapers or pull-ups
- Wipes
- Change of clothes
- Snacks and drinks
- Favorite toys or comfort items
- Coloring Books such as this airport coloring book
- Tablet or smartphone with child-friendly entertainment
- Child’s medication, if needed
- Extra pacifiers, if applicable
- A blanket or small pillow for comfort
15. Stay Calm With Tantrums
You may follow all the tips in the guide, but sometimes, we cannot control the unavoidable. Tantrums may still happen; you should expect them and be prepared to stay calm. Do not let anyone’s judgmental looks make you feel like kids do not belong on airplanes.
It’s important to stay calm and be prepared when dealing with tantrums during a flight with a toddler.
Distract them with toys, books, or electronic devices; engage the flight attendants for assistance; and comfort them to help them feel safe.
16. Assist During Air Pressure
Babies’ and toddlers’ ears can hurt during airplane travel due to changes in air pressure.
When a plane ascends or descends, the air pressure changes rapidly, and young children, including babies, may have difficulty equalizing the pressure in their ears. This can lead to discomfort or pain.
You can avoid this by offering a bottle, breastfeeding, or a pacifier. Additionally, offering a snack or drink during these times can help relieve ear pressure.
17. Do Not Force Sleep Too Much
I will admit that the best moments to fly with a toddler are when they are napping or sleeping. It’s when I can finally relax my hands and nerves and have some book or movie time with pretzels. Yes!
While it feels fantastic when your kids finally fall asleep on the plane, it is essential not to force it, as this can make things worse.
My kids usually have some downtime during our flights. But not always! Initially, I used to force it so much that I left myself burnt out at the end of the day, and nobody slept anyway. I learned my lesson.
A new environment can excite and overstimulate kids, and forcing them to sleep can even irritate them. So, take it easy if they are not cooperating.
18. Preplan In-Flight Entertainment
We have strict rules for daily screen time or tablet use, but if you are like us, I recommend forgetting those rules when your toddler is stuck in one seat for hours—one of the best tips I told myself for traveling with a toddler.
Keep your toddler occupied with a mix of their favorite toys, books, sticker books, and digital entertainment. Mix it up so they are not watching screens the whole flight.
Consider downloading new apps or shows for the occasion, and don’t forget to charge your electronic devices.
19. Snack and Meal Tips
- Snacks: Pack their favorites plus new options to pique interest
- Meals: Prefer easy-to-handle and non-messy foods
- Hydration: Offer water frequently to stay hydrated
20. Inflatable Foot Rest For Sleep
An inflatable toddler footrest pillow for airplanes is designed to provide young travelers with a comfortable, supportive surface for their legs and feet during flights.
These pillows are typically adjustable in height to accommodate different seating positions and can help children maintain a more comfortable, relaxed posture during air travel.
It’s important to note that specific airline policies may vary, so checking with the airline before traveling is advisable. For example, Air France did not allow us to use one.
In addition, some parents are big fans of Stoke Bedbox, which can serve as a child’s luggage and a bed.
While we do not have one, we have seen this often around the airport. I even asked one family member for their opinion, and they said it was the best way to travel with a toddler.
21. Keep Them Hydrated
The cabin air can be dry, so keeping your toddler well hydrated throughout the flight is essential.
Regular sips of water or milk help prevent dehydration. Consider bringing an empty sippy cup to fill after passing through security.
22. Try to Stay Calm During Tantrums
Tantrums can happen, especially when the environment and routine change. Stay calm and respond with reassuring words.
Distraction is essential; a new book or a quiet toy can be very effective, as can their favorite comfort items, such as a blanket or a stuffed animal.
23. Take Care of Yourself Too!
When traveling with a toddler, it’s essential to prioritize self-care to manage the demands of little travelers effectively. Here are some of my favorite tips.
- Plan Ahead: Organize your itinerary and pack essentials in advance to minimize stress during the trip.
- Rest When Possible: Take naps or quiet moments to rest and recharge. This could be challenging if you are traveling solo. But if your partner is coming along, make sure you both get a little bit of rest.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to sustain energy. As much as you would like to go for caffeine, try not to. It makes me more tired and anxious when traveling with kids. Instead, drink a lot of water.
- Ask for help: When caring for your toddler, don’t hesitate to ask family, friends, or travel companions for help.
- Practice Patience: Embrace flexibility and be patient with yourself and your child during travel.
- Self-Entertainment: Bring along items to keep yourself entertained during downtime, such as books, music, or podcasts.
When flying with a toddler in the United States, children under 18 generally do not need a passport or identification. However, I recommend having some identification when traveling domestically, such as a birth certificate, passport, or state-issued identification.
Some airlines may still require age verification. Before traveling, you should check with the airline for additional requirements or recommendations.
Kids of all ages need a passport for international flights.
You can bring any dry snacks, such as granolas, cookies, puffs, dried fruits, and crackers, without any issues. I like to put them in individual Ziploc bags for easy identification if required.
You may also bring creamy or liquid items such as yogurts, breastmilk, or formula, but be prepared to disclose those and the security to check those items separately. You can get those inside the airport if you don’t mind waiting a few extra minutes. We do not mind the process and usually bring everything we need from home.
While flying with toddlers can be challenging, flying with a lap toddler can be even more difficult. But do not worry—we have done it and survived every time.
Here are some of my favorite things to do when traveling with a toddler on a lap: Arrive at the Airport Early and hopefully get them tired enough to nap on the airplane.
A carrier or sling allows parents to free their hands for a little while. But remember, airlines do not allow it during takeoffs, landings, or turbulence.
Keep them hydrated, well-fed, and entertained, even during screen time.
Bring pacifier holders to avoid going to the bathroom to rinse them often! Also, I would pack extra milk bottles for the same reason
Tips For Flying With a Toddler
Here are my most practical tips for flying with a toddler. These may not work equally for every kid, but considering them will prepare you for a journey with more confidence.
I love traveling with kids, and I accept the ups and downs. Because at the end of the journey, I will not remember the nonstop tantrums but the joy and memories created in between.
If you need more motivation or inspiration, check out my favorite travel with kids quotes to boost your positivity and excitement.
If you are ready to plan further, make sure to download my Simple Travel Planning Template — the exact template I use to plan all our family trips.
